Santa’s gifts from Ellie, 14
YOUNGSTER BUYS HUNDREDS OF TOYS FOR CHILDREN ON HOSPITAL WARD WHERE SHE IS BEING TREATED
A KINDHEARTED teenager donated £450-worth of toys to the children’s ward where she was treated for Crohn’s Disease.
Ellie Pugh, 14, bought toys and games for other youngsters being looked after at the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary in Wigan this Christmas.
The teenager, from Leigh, has been cared for by staff on the Rainbow Ward for the last six years.
Ellie, who cannot eat and is fed through a tube, wanted to give something back.
The inspiring youngster has also raised £7,500 for Crohn’s and Colitis UK.
“Illnesses don’t stop just because it is Christmas, so that is why I have brought in lots of toys to make the children feel a bit better over the Christmas period,” Ellie said.
Leigh Centurions Rugby Club gave Ellie a signed T-shirt, which she auctioned for £180 to help her buy gifts for the other children on the ward.
She has also had support from her family and friends, as well as other businesses, including her mum’s Slimming World group at St Joseph’s, in Leigh, and Centurion Fitness Gym, who have collected toys from their gym members instead of paying for classes.
Ellie has also given the same amount to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, where she has also been treated.
Anthony Pugh, Ellie’s dad, said: “It is nice to give to our local hospital. Ellie’s younger brother was also in Wigan Hospital’s Rainbow Ward when he was younger and our eldest daughter, Beth, is currently doing a pre-degree working in the Coronary Care Unit at Wigan Royal Albert Edward Infirmary.” Ellie’s family have also been getting involved. Instead of receiving presents for themselves and her younger brother, Connor’s school, Leigh Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School, raised just over £60 to also help towards buying toys and games.
Nicky Crowther, Hospital Play Specialist on Rainbow Ward, said: “Ellie has been through a lot and for her to think about other children, even though she is ill herself is beyond amazing.”